The Metal Men were presented as advanced artificially intelligent robots, created by scientist Dr. William "Will" Magnus. "Doc" Magnus states that their intelligence and personalities are generated by devices called "responsometers". mirror characteristics commonly associated with their namesake metals, both in personality and in substance. The team consisted of leader Gold, strong man Iron, slow-witted and loyal Lead, self-doubting and insecure Tin, hot-headed Mercury (the only metal liquid at room temperature), and Platinum, or Tina, who thought she was a real woman rather than a robot and was in love with creator Doc Magnus.

First appeared in Showcase #37. Created by Ross Andru and Mike Esposito.